Scrutiny Mounts on HVAC-COVID-19 Connection

Former OSHA head says employers not taking adequate measures to address real COVID-19 risks in workplaces

By By Dan Hounsell


While early efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic focused on sanitizing surfaces, the focus quickly turned to the role played by airflow through facilities. As a result, scrutiny continues to mount for HVAC system performance and the equipment’s role in preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

Recently, the former head of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) indicated his belief that many employers are not taking adequate measures to address the real risks for COVID-19 in the workplace, according to JD Supra. Dr. David Michaels said that in addition to droplet and surface transmission, the virus may become airborne for extended periods of time.

The CDC updated its guidance in October 2020 to address this potential, but the agency maintains that the virus primarily spreads through close contact.) He goes on to recommend that in addition to masks, social distancing, and other preventative measures, OSHA should require employers to carefully review their ventilation and airflow systems.

Some state COVID-19 standards already in place require employers to review and upgrade HVAC systems where feasible. A more aggressive approach, such as that suggested by Dr. Michaels, could include other measures such as advanced filtration, installation of blowers, or even new ductwork in parts of a workplace that suffer from poor ventilation.

Click here to read the article.



March 3, 2021


Topic Area: HVAC


Recent Posts

How Backup Power Needs Vary Across Healthcare Settings

Manufacturers discuss how evolving codes, technologies and care settings shape healthcare backup power strategies.


Flexible Design Strategies Help OhioHealth Maximize Clinical Space

Doing more with less was key to the renovated facility’s design.


New Bass Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases Opens

The new space not only offers more exam rooms but also features 15 private infusion bays to allow privacy for all patients and their caregivers during treatment.


Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Daytona Beach Opens

Hospital amenities include all private patient rooms, a spacious therapy gym featuring advanced rehabilitation technologies, an activities of daily living suite and more.


What Healthcare Facilities Can Learn from a $49 Million Window Failure

A major window system failure at the University of Iowa’s Children’s Hospital sparked a costly replacement project – and a $49.4 million arbitration win.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.